Couples Resorts Message Board - Blogs - Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/blog.php/16378-Couples-Blog
The sunny beaches of Couples Resorts in Negril and Ocho Rios Jamaica await you so pack your Sunglasses and Sandals and get ready to enjoy a luxury all inclusive discount vacation, wedding or honeymoon.enTue, 31 Mar 2015 18:55:20 GMTvBulletin60https://couples.com/mb/images/misc/rss.jpgCouples Resorts Message Board - Blogs - Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/blog.php/16378-Couples-Blog
Americans Need To Take More Vacationshttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/164-Americans-Need-To-Take-More-Vacations
Mon, 25 Aug 2014 18:59:48 GMT*Unused Paid Time Off*
Many Americans are cheating themselves out of their work benefits by not using all of the paid time off that they earn each...

Unused Paid Time Off
Many Americans are cheating themselves out of their work benefits by not using all of the paid time off that they earn each year. Not only do workers in other countries use all of their vacation days but, on average, they earn more vacation days than most Americans do. So, why are Americans choosing to sit at work when they could be sitting by the pool or going on a couples vacation with their loved one? The answer – job insecurity and fear.

Lingering Effect of the Recession
Although unemployment rates have been steadily decreasing over the last five years, most workers remember the all too recent recession and are scared of the idea of not working or of not having a job at all. Not only was it difficult to find work during the recession, but if you slipped up at work there was a long line of qualified people who were willing and available to take your job. This made many workers worry about their overall job security.

Even as things are looking up, workers still fear that if they use their vacation days their employer will either realize that the company can do just fine without them or will think that they do not appreciate their job or take it seriously. Some employers feed into this fear by creating a workplace culture that makes it difficult to get time off. However, other employers realize that an employee who is overworked and stressed is less productive than a rested employee.

Avoiding Burnout
Research studies have shown that employees who take time off are actually more productive throughout the year and have a higher level of job satisfaction. Some employers who have recognized this benefit actually require that their employees take time off, while others do not require but strongly encourage it.

In the long run, a heavy workload with no time off leads to job burnout, a lack of drive, and overall dissatisfaction with one’s work. So, paradoxically, taking time off from your job increases your job satisfaction, productivity, and security.

Vacations
Taking time off from work does not mean that you need to break the bank by going on expensive European tours or two-week luxury cruises. There are many vacations that offer relaxation and a change of scenery - without costing a fortune. With some forward planning, planning a trip to a couples only resort or going on a tropical getaway can be done even on a tight budget. A vacation shouldn't be stressful, so don’t worry about packing everything you want to do into one trip.

Staycation
Also, there is nothing to say to you need to leave home at all. Many people take time off of work for a “staycation” where they enjoy things to do near their home. A staycation can provide all the benefits of a tradition vacation in terms of feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. People are often surprised how many things there are to do in their own backyard.

Self-care and a focus on work life balance are important for your happiness and health, so take a break from work and enjoy your time off!

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/164-Americans-Need-To-Take-More-VacationsSurprise Weddings: A Startling Route for Some Coupleshttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/163-Surprise-Weddings-A-Startling-Route-for-Some-Couples
Mon, 25 Aug 2014 18:54:05 GMT*Surprising the Guests*
Surprise weddings are a great way for couples to celebrate their union with some excitement and fun, while at the same time...

Surprising the Guests
Surprise weddings are a great way for couples to celebrate their union with some excitement and fun, while at the same time cutting back on stress and costs. For most surprise weddings, the bride and groom invite friends and family to an “engagement party” or a non-wedding related event such as a “BBQ”. The guests are unaware that they are actually attending a wedding. Many couples bring a change of clothes so that they can sneak off at some point to put on their wedding gown and tux. Then the couple comes out and announces that they are getting married – immediately.

Surprising the Bride or Groom
A less common practice, but one that has also been done successfully, is for one partner to plan a surprise wedding for the other. In this situation the wedding planning partner will invite the guests and may or may not let them in on the surprise. When a groom is planning the wedding, he will often buy a dress as a present for the bride. If the bride is planning the event, she may tell the groom that they are going to a fancy event for which he will need to rent a tux. This type of wedding can be exciting and magical for both partners. However, one should be quite sure of the other person’s feelings about what they want their wedding to be like or the surprise could be an unwelcome one.

Reduce Stress
People often describe their wedding day as one of the happiest days of their life. However, the months of picking colors, rearranging seating charts, choosing invitations, and planning every other detail that goes into a traditional wedding can make the time leading up to a wedding very stressful. A surprise wedding is a great way to reduce a lot of this stress. You'll still need to consider wedding destinations, who you want to invite, and what you want to feed these guests, however, even these details tend to be less formal in a surprise wedding. A BBQ with some friends and family at the beach, for example, would be the only the details needed for a top-notch surprise wedding.

Reduce Costs
A surprise wedding is a great way to cut costs for both you and your family and friends. Surprise weddings tend to be less formal and entail less costly preparations. For the bride and groom this means less money spent on food, decorations, the location, the DJ, the wedding planner, etc. For the invited guests this means less money spent on a wedding gift and on formal clothes for the event. In recent years it seems as if weddings keep getting more expensive, and media exposure to celebrity weddings and shows like Platinum Weddings depict just how much money that can be spent for a one-day event. More and more couples are deciding to go in the opposite direction and have a simple and low-cost wedding, preferring to spend money on an all-inclusive honeymoon or put money into their house.

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/163-Surprise-Weddings-A-Startling-Route-for-Some-Coupleshttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/162-Top-Beach-Drinks-Around-the-World-Infographic
Mon, 21 Jul 2014 16:24:53 GMTRelaxing on the beach or by the pool is almost perfect; sipping on something cold and sweet while you’re doing it is perfect. Everyone has their...

Relaxing on the beach or by the pool is almost perfect; sipping on something cold and sweet while you’re doing it is perfect. Everyone has their favorite beach drink, we really mean it, everyone! Popular tropical drinks are present on every continent because that refreshing combination is irresistible— across languages, cultures, and even continents. Cruising through South America? Try a Capirinha, a beachy drink native to Brazil. Or visit Africa and try a Dawa. Wherever you are, there is some pleasant poison to make your beach experience perfect.

In Jamaica? While the famous Nineteen Sixty Two is native to Jamaica, Couples Resorts has a variety of signature beach cocktails that are worthy of making the map! Whether you’re coconutty-pineappley or blackberry-peachy, we’ve got the mix to keep you in the heart of the Caribbean vibe. Yea mon! Our new Top Beach Drinks infographic displays the most popular beach drinks from around the globe as well as a few recipes of Couples’ famous.

Spread the love and share your favorite #beachdrinks! If you’ve stayed at #CouplesResorts, tell us your favorite #couplesdrinks. Or, to book your stay, call your local travel agent or 1-800-268-7537.

HTML Code:

<img src="http://couples.com/mb/attachment.php?attachmentid=22213&d=1405957606" width="800" alt="Top Beach Drinks Around the World - Infographic by Couples Resorts"><p>See popular beach drinks from around the globe as well as a few beachy cocktail recipes in this new <a href='http://couples.com/mb/entry.php/162-Top-Beach-Drinks-Around-the-World-Infographic'>infographic by Couples Resorts</a>.</p>

Attached Images

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/162-Top-Beach-Drinks-Around-the-World-InfographicRelaxing Adventures are Ideal for Couples Vacationshttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/159-Relaxing-Adventures-are-Ideal-for-Couples-Vacations
Sat, 28 Jun 2014 12:00:00 GMTLet Couples Resorts make your vacation everything you dreamed it could be. Let the cares of your daily life melt away as you slow down and indulge...

Let Couples Resorts make your vacation everything you dreamed it could be. Let the cares of your daily life melt away as you slow down and indulge in the decadent relaxation of the island spirit.

Couples Resorts Swept Away is the perfect romantic getaway for couples looking to spice up their Caribbean paradise with some fun, low-stress, and memorable adventures.

Located on the white sand beaches of Negril, Jamaica, Swept Away is a stunning, all-inclusive resort with the feel of a secluded retreat. Soft romantic touches, sumptuous rooms, and even a "romance concierge" all help make Swept Away the ideal vacation spot for you and your loved one.

Swept Away Activities

Often vacations are so filled with strenuous and complicated activities that you often return home feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation.

Swept Away has a different agenda - the resort is filled with countless activities and excursions that are all part of a list of included Couples Resorts extras. You’ll be busy … but your experiences will all be infused with the calm, relaxed, island feel. No need to feel stressed – practically all of your excursions are included in your room rate, as part of Couples Resorts inclusions. If you choose to join a soft and relaxing adventure, great! If you would rather lie on the gorgeous white sands, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or swim in one of the many pools - that is great too!

Included Excursions

Let Swept Away fill your vacation with memories that will last a lifetime:

Glass Bottom Boat Tour - float above gorgeous coral reefs and watch a whole world of sea life below you as you ride in a glass bottom boat through the crystal-clear Caribbean waters.

Trip to Margaritaville - Take the complimentary party bus to Margaritaville and let Swept Away pay your entrance fee to this mecca of all things Jimmy Buffet, Jamaican hospitality, and the laid-back island lifestyle.

Sunset Catamaran Cruise - There is no more perfect way to enjoy the Caribbean than on the water at sunset. Swept Away will cruise you to Jamaica's West End on a 65-foot catamaran. Watch the skies and water burst into color as you return home at sunset.

Unlimited Golf - Gain full access to two of Jamaica's finest golf courses. With transportation to and from the course and greens fees included in your room rate - you are free to enjoy all the golf you care to enjoy!

Shopping Tour - Love seeing the local culture, crafts, and cuisine? The shopping tour, including stops at several duty-free shops, might just be your own slice of paradise. Enjoy immersing yourself in the Jamaican culture, and grab some souvenirs on your way!

It seems as though our world gets smaller every day. Technology connects us with unprecedented speed, the 24-hour news cycle keeps us connected to worldwide events, and social media has added a reminder of the humanity that we all share.

The ever-shrinking world and increased level of connection has created awareness along with a surge of compassion and increased in voluntourism. From celebrities using their public platform to champion worthy causes, to businesses supporting charities, to the general public joining together to support their own and those abroad - the movement of volunteerism is alive and well!

Many who travel to Jamaica for a once-in-a-life time tropical getaway find some of the greatest rewards when connecting with those less fortunate. Volunteering while vacationing is becoming increasingly popular these days as it allows you to truly connect with the local population and add meaning to your trip. While sunning on the beach and sipping cool drinks by the pool can put anyone in “vacation mode,” volunteering some of your time will elevate your personal spirit and create a worthwhile experience for you and your fellow travelers.

Many of the locations in which vacationers find themselves, including tropical islands and faraway resorts, have a rather large percentage of the local population that struggles with illiteracy, poverty, and hunger. Imagine the sense of purpose you’ll feel when you spend a small amount of time during your trip as a volunteer in a local area of need. These memories and connections truly last a lifetime.

Issa Trust Foundation

Couples Resorts so strongly believes in the power of human compassion and giving back, that in 2005 they created the Issa Trust Foundation. Named in honor of Abe Issa, Couples Resorts' legendary visionary and "father of Jamaican tourism," this trust seeks to give back through enriching the quality of life for the whole island of Jamaica.

As a non-profit organization, the Issa Trust holds the mission "to provide a system of prevention, health promotion and education, community health improvement and other services to promote well-being and development for the people of Jamaica."

Since 2005, Couples Resorts and the Issa Trust have made great strides in helping improve medical care, education, and community health for Jamaica. Providing free medical care for thousands of children, creating education and work programs, advocating for families seeking to maintain safe and healthy homes, and much more - the Issa Trust has and continues to fulfill their mission for the people of Jamaica.

As a true example of positivity at work, the trust has not only helped improve the lives of Jamaican, but also the volunteers who dedicate their time and skills. Volunteerism works both ways - enriching the lives of both those who give and those who receive.

Getting Involved

There are many ways to get involved with the Issa Trust and to gain the life-changing experience of helping those in need.

Helping can be as simple as packing some extra supplies when you take a vacation to a Couples Resort. The Jamaican resorts sponsor the program "Pack to Make a Difference" which has guests pack common supplies that are always needed in the school system. By throwing some pencils, crayons, glue sticks, or flash cards into your luggage you can help support the Issa Trusts' initiative.

Other ways to get involved range from simple actions, like using an Amazon Smile account to support the foundation, to large commitments, like donating your medical services or time to help run clinics and local programs.

Whether choosing to donate your time and compassion to the Issa Trust Foundation, or any other helpful program, choosing to volunteer gives as much back to you as to the people you are helping. Join the volunteer movement - it just might be one of the best decisions you have ever made!

A Couples Resorts experience strengthens the love our guests feels for each other. It is impossible to feel anything other than attraction and intimacy when surrounded by breathtaking views, a vibrant local culture, and an idyllic Caribbean setting. But an intriguing new study actually finds that relationships can be further improved by focusing on an activity that many of us enjoy – eating!

The study by Ohio State University found that those who experienced prolonged feelings of hunger or low blood sugar often reacted harshly to their spouse or partner. As glycemic levels rose back to normal levels, reactions became friendlier and emotions seemed to calm. The study went as far as to employ “Voodoo dolls” to gauge the reactions among both satisfied and hungry research participants – with quite interesting results!

At Couples Resorts, we want to help you feed your relationship. We offer an amazing array of culinary options that will keep you satisfied and your relationship growing. From elegant white linen and china dinners to casual burgers by the pool – there’s always the perfect option waiting for you at any of our stunning locations.

Smooth out any wrinkles in your vacation with decadent and once-in-a-lifetime dining.

Couples Resorts will sweep you away from the ordinary, fill your days with relaxation, and feed your relationship with romantic dining at the Couples Tower Isle restaurants. Offering a wide range of dining options, Couples Tower Isle excels at creating romantic meals and the subtle ambience that bring couples together. Finely crafted food, locally sourced produce, seafood, and spices, and traditional and international menus - the Couples Tower Isle restaurants represent dining at its finest.

Patio breakfasts overlooking the Caribbean

Bayside dining on Asian cuisine

Authentic Jamaican cuisine at Eight Rivers restaurant

In-suite dining for an intimate and cozy meal

Healthy and casual fare is available poolside and at the Veggie Bar

A sultry 50's inspired piano bar for cocktails and dancing

Couples Resorts are dedicated to helping you create the romantic getaway of your dreams. Relax with our spicy dining options and get ready to heat up your vacation.

Romance Concierge

Take your dining to the next level by working with a Romance Concierge, and create a romantic and indulgent meal that you both will never forget.

Dinner on the Beach

Feel the stresses of your daily life melt away as you stroll down a petal-strewn beach path to your romantic candlelit table-for-two. Listen to the surf lap against the shoreline while you leisurely sip wine and delight in the cuisine from a Caribbean-inspired menu. Under the shimmering stars you can slow down, feel the romance, and take the time to truly appreciate your significant other.

Additional Services

Let your romance concierge help you with more than just beachside dining. As experts in romance, your concierge can help you set up couples’ massages on the beach, spa days, and romantic outings on the island, perfect proposal sites, and even local shops where you can find charming gifts.

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/157-Feed-Your-Relationship-Eat-Don-t-Argue!50 Reasons to Love Couples Resorts and 1 Great Reason to Book Todayhttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/153-50-Reasons-to-Love-Couples-Resorts-and-1-Great-Reason-to-Book-Today
Tue, 06 May 2014 16:14:56 GMTWe’ve compiled a few reasons why you should book your Couples Resorts vacation – in fact, click here to discover 50 reasons to book today...

We’ve compiled a few reasons why you should book your Couples Resorts vacation – in fact, click here to discover 50 reasons to book today! Included in the “Top 50” List are guest favorites like our award-winning cuisine, sunset sailing trips on our catamaran, and our indulgent spa treatments. You’re bound to create your own Top 50 List as you explore all that our luxurious properties have to offer.

After you’ve carefully considered each reason to visit our wonderful properties, you can then decide where you’ll want to stay first. Choose from the Tower Isle resort – luxuriously perched above the waves near Ocho Rios, Jamaica. This chic, contemporary property is the perfect getaway to relax and unwind. The Sans Souci property literally lives up to its motto of “no worries.” Reserved, colonial elegance and the peaceful cadence of the crashing waves define the word “Zen.”

Couples Negril is all about the beach. With a sumptuous stretch of white sand framing crystal clear waters, this resort is perfect for the beach enthusiast. Lastly, you can’t escape the romance of Couples Swept Away. This property feels made for couples – with billowing white fabrics and flower-lined paths. Swept Away is ideal for those who are looking to reconnect with their favorite person.

At Couples Resorts, you’re invited to enjoy the ultimate all-inclusive Jamaican vacation experience and save some money in the process. We’re focused on providing the absolute finest experience for our guests. Choose from among a variety of activities, destinations and excursions that promise to deliver whatever you desire – relaxation, exhilaration, enlightenment – the choice is yours!

Perhaps reason #51 to book with Couples today is our $50 instant credit promotion that is valid through May 15th, 2014! This offer is good for any stay at one of our four island properties of three nights or more. Save $150 for a three night stay, $200 for four nights or up to $350 for a seven night stay. The seven night package earns you an additional $150 instant credit. That totals $500 in savings for the ultimate seven-night Jamaican experience!

Couples Resorts was founded on the principle of delivering a world-class experience at a reasonable price, and was the first all-inclusive on the island of Jamaica. Now, with our instant credit promotion, you’ll be able to save $50 per night on an all-inclusive stay at any of our four Jamaican resorts.

So whether you’re looking to have some fun in the Jamaican sun, you want to relax on a hammock and let your cares melt away, or you want to indulge in the local culture of Jamaica, simply contact us today. We’ll help you take the first step towards designing the ultimate all-inclusive Jamaican vacation!

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/153-50-Reasons-to-Love-Couples-Resorts-and-1-Great-Reason-to-Book-TodayWedding Gift Etiquette for Local and Destination Weddingshttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/151-Wedding-Gift-Etiquette-for-Local-and-Destination-Weddings
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 12:00:00 GMTSo you’re looking at the registry; you notice that the bride was careful and thoughtful to include items of all price ranges so everyone can afford...

So you’re looking at the registry; you notice that the bride was careful and thoughtful to include items of all price ranges so everyone can afford to contribute. But what is the expected standard? Don’t worry, mon, we have done our research and here is what we found:

The Knot reported that friends spend about $80 and family members spend about $150.

Local Weddings

The rule of thumb is that your gift should replace your cost of attendance. Every venue or caterer has a cost per guest. If you know the location, it is a simple phone call to the venue to ask for average pricing per guest for weddings. If the venue does not provide food and a caterer is being used, you are not expected to ask the Bride who her caterer is so you can call. If you search for catering companies in the geographic area of the wedding, you should be able to get an idea for average costs per person.

Rule of Thumb: The average cost of attendance for a wedding in the United States is $100 person. Therefore, your wedding gift should, on average, cost about $100.

What if you bring a date?

Sticking with the average cost of $100/person, now that there are two of you, does this mean that your gift has to equal $200? Not necessarily. We recommend that with the addition of one person, you contribute half of the cost of one guest plus the full cost of one guest. So if there are two people attending, the contribution from the couple should be about $150.

What if you’re a family attending?

The family rule is similar to the date rule with an exception. Still with the average cost of $100/person, we recommend that the wedding gift equals the cost of all adults, and half of the cost of children. So a family of four would contribute $200 for both adults and $100 for both children, totaling $300.

What if you’re in the wedding party?

You bought the dress or suit, went overboard on the bridal shower, and threw the bachelor/bachelorette party. Do you need to spend even more on a wedding gift? The answer is yes; but it doesn’t have to be as expensive as you might expect. It is perfectly acceptable for the bridesmaids and groomsmen to team up and all chip in for something for the newlyweds, for example, a couple’s massage on the honeymoon. Split between wedding parties this will be extremely affordable.

Destination Weddings

But you just spent money on the flight, hotel, and tropical wardrobe… do these rules still apply?

For destination weddings, the bride and groom usually specify that your ‘presence is the best present’. If this is not specified, they yes, you still need a gift, but it does not need to be of the same level as gifts for a local wedding. Something to contribute towards the honeymoon is always a good idea. $50 in a card that says “drinks on the beach are on us” is perfectly acceptable and thoughtful.

At Couples Resorts, consider a gift or Wedding Bliss Package to Oasis Spa. It will surely be a heavenly experience to enhance the bride’s and groom’s special day!

No matter where the wedding is or how many people are attending, the bride and groom want you there to help celebrate their special day, not to give them another place setting. While these rules are here to help you, don’t spend outside of your means and make sure that you are giving joyfully!

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/151-Wedding-Gift-Etiquette-for-Local-and-Destination-WeddingsCouples Resorts Announces That the Spring Fling Promotion Has Been Extended!http://couples.com/mb/entry.php/148-Couples-Resorts-Announces-That-the-Spring-Fling-Promotion-Has-Been-Extended!
Fri, 28 Mar 2014 13:00:00 GMTFor a limited time, major savings can be had while in search for couples Jamaica deals (http://couples.com/special-offers/); especially when you book...

For a limited time, major savings can be had while in search for couples Jamaica deals; especially when you book a 4, 5, 6, or 7 night stay at a Couples Resorts location!

Couples Resorts has extended the Spring Fling promotional offer that has helped make a Caribbean dream vacation a reality for so many. The Spring Fling promotion provides an airfare rewards credit for Couples Resorts guests based on the length of their stay. Stay four nights and get a $150 credit on airfare. Five nights delivers a $200 credit, and six or seven nights provides a $250 and $300 credit, respectively. The cost of airfare is often a significant portion of the total expense for any vacation, so Couples Resorts wants to make it more affordable for guests to experience the luxurious tranquility of any of their sophisticated resorts.

Couples Tower Isle

Choose from the original Jamaica all-inclusive Couples Resort - the Tower Isle, which boasts amazing views of the lush coastline from its location of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. This resort features striking white furniture with tropical-themed color accents, contemporary décor, and delivers an award-winning culinary experience. The Sans Souci, which is comfortably nestled on the cliffs above Jamaica’s Emerald Coast, lives up to its motto of "no worries." Take a nap in a seaside hammock, enjoy a reinvigorating spa treatment, or stroll along the secluded pathways of the resort and the neighboring areas.

Couples Negril

If you’re seeking the ultimate in beachside relaxation, consider Couples Negril. This location delivers a breathtaking strip of pure white sand beach and all of the water activities you care to enjoy. Couples Swept Away delivers access to a seven-mile stretch of pure white sand beach and the aroma of blossoming flowers.

No matter which resort appeals to your definition of relaxation, you’ll be in a better position to book the trip of a lifetime thanks to the extension of the Spring Fling promotion from Couples Resorts.

Nestled on the cliffs of Jamaica’s emerald coast above a dazzling stretch of the Caribbean is the 150 suite Couples Sans Souci resort which beckons for you to surrender your mind, body and soul. The newest addition to the glistening waters off Couples Sans Souci’s beach is the Dolce Vita speed boat. The boat’s name means the ‘sweet life’ and guests can choose from three different offshore adventures which will allow them to experience their own slice of the sweet life when next they book this Jamaican all inclusive resort.

Champagne Cruise

An 80 minute cruise that takes you along the coastline and includes a chilled bottle of champagne accompanied with a fruit and cheese plate.

Are you ready to climb aboard and be swept away? Simply visit the Water Sports department at the resort and book a little sweet life of your own!

Please note: The Dolce Vita accommodates a maximum of 6 guests and all cruisers will be accompanied by both a captain and a mate.

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/147-Luxury-Speed-Boat-Ride-at-Couples-Sans-SouciTips for Planning a Destination Weddinghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/146-Tips-for-Planning-a-Destination-Wedding
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 13:00:00 GMTA destination wedding combines an exciting locale with an intimate ceremony
There is no right or wrong way to design your wedding ceremony. You...

A destination wedding combines an exciting locale with an intimate ceremony

There is no right or wrong way to design your wedding ceremony. You might prefer a traditional wedding - complete with church ceremony, rice in the hair, reception hall celebration, and a tiered wedding cake on a pedestal. For many of us, this defines the typical wedding. Some prefer a simple wedding, maybe a quick trip to the courthouse for an intimate get-together with family and friends. Others choose to take the plunge in Sin City - allowing the glowing backdrop of Las Vegas to illuminate the festivities. And finally, some couples choose the exciting option of planning a destination wedding.

Couples Resorts has released an exciting new infographic that touches on the many facets of planning a destination wedding. A destination wedding usually does not require as much planning as any wedding in your home town and yet the rewards of choosing a location that is far from home may sway many to give up the "wedding hall down the street" and commit to the idea of a far away destination.

Destination weddings can be fun, exciting, and memorable and with the help of our wedding planners who are a phone call, the planning is much simpler. First, you'll want to decide on the location for your big day. Most destination weddings are planned around a location that speaks to the couple, or has some specific significance to the bride and groom or their families. Jamaica, Hawaii and Italy are three of the most popular destination wedding spots.

Pick a location that you'll want to remember for a lifetime. Many couples choose a tropical or temperate location, but it is most important to select a locale that mirrors your personality and likes. We also recommend researching the seasons in order to be best prepared to dress for the weather. You'll want to give plenty of advanced notice to those you are planning on inviting, as international travel arrangements can be more complicated to secure. Our expert reservationists are on hand to take care of every detail, just remember 1-800-COUPLES.

A destination wedding can be an exciting, memorable and intimate affair that you and your guests will remember for years to come. And remember - once vows are exchanged and rings are placed on fingers, you're already at your honeymoon destination!

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/146-Tips-for-Planning-a-Destination-WeddingWedding Bliss Packages at the Oasis Spa at Coupleshttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/145-Wedding-Bliss-Packages-at-the-Oasis-Spa-at-Couples
Wed, 19 Mar 2014 16:40:37 GMTHow you look on your wedding day may be something that you’ve dreamt about for years. Couples Resorts is well aware of the importance of this special...

How you look on your wedding day may be something that you’ve dreamt about for years. Couples Resorts is well aware of the importance of this special day and the ladies at the Oasis Spa are here to make you look better than your dreams. Celebrate your special day in style with a host of indulgent treatments and beauty services.

Here Comes the Bride

For a radiant look that will take his breath away, allow us to pamper you from head to toe. After an initial consultation, our expert stylists will create a gorgeous hair style that complements your dress beautifully. For perfect hands and feet, a flawless manicure and pedicure is followed by a luxurious paraffin treatment on hands or feet.

Bridal Bliss

The perfect antidote to any wedding day jitters, this package starts with a wonderfully relaxing 25-minute stress relief massage, followed by a full-body polish that will leave your skin touchably soft. For the perfect finish, enjoy a flawless manicure and pedicure followed by an ultra-moisturizing paraffin treatment on your hands or feet.

Man of the Moment

The groom deserves a little pampering too – and with this package of services will feel relaxed and ready to celebrate his big day. First, enjoy a little stress-relief with a 25-minute back, neck and shoulder massage and a 25-minute reflexology session. Next, our expert nail technicians pay special attention to hands and feet with our signature manicure and pedicure. Finally, a luxurious hot towel shave leaves you looking your best.

If these aren’t enough, treat yourself to our individual beauty services – all designed to nurture hair, hands or feet. With your comfort and peace of mind always considered, we also offer trial sessions. Please be sure to inquire at the spa reservations desk for any specialty treatments available exclusively at Couples Resorts.

Delicious, mouth-watering dishes are available for you to enjoy during your Caribbean vacation at Couples Resorts. Under the auspices of Executive Chef Stephan Spath, every menu has been thoughtfully crafted using only the finest local produce, seafood and spices—to deliver a dining experience as delicious as it is authentic. In Jamaica, it’s all about the spices. That’s why we’re sharing with you today the recipe for Curried Shrimp.

Curried Shrimp

Ingredients:

1 lb shrimp

3 tbs curry powder

Salt- pepper to taste

4 tbsp corn oil

1 clove garlic

1 stalk scallion

1 sprig thyme

1 scotch bonnet pepper

1 onion, diced

½c coconut milk

Method:

Season shrimp with curry powder, salt and pepper

Heat pot, add corn oil then garlic clove, scallion, thyme, hot pepper, onion and allow to sauté for a about one minute

Add shrimp and stir occasionally for a few minutes, then add coconut milk and allow to cook for about five minutes

Remove and serve

Follow along with the video below for steps on how to create this delicious entrée at home and remember to check back for more recipes you might find while vacationing at one of our all-inclusive resorts.

Couples Resorts is known to continuously reinvent itself with various offerings that keep guests coming back for more! One of the newest additions to Couples Resorts is the Martini Bar at Couples Sans Souci in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Here you’ll find a wide array of martinis including some local fruits, such as tamarind and passion. We’re excited to share with you below four martinis recommended by Bartender Andrew at Couples Sans Souci. Andrew hopes you will enjoy one on your next visit to our Sans Souci resort in Jamaica!

Couples Sans Souci Martini

1 ¼ oz Bicardi Lemon

¼ oz Grand Marnier

¼ oz Dry Vermouth

Orange Juice

Flirtini

1 ½ oz Vodka

½ oz Peach schnapps

2 oz Cranberry Juice

Top with Champagne

Chocolate Whip

½ oz Crème de cocoa dark

1 ½ oz Vodka

Top with Whip Cream

Passion Martini

1 oz Vodka

20 oz Passion Juice

Shake & Strain

On your next all inclusive trip to Couples Sans Souci be sure to stop by the Martini Bar, located below the balloon bar and next to the Evergreen block overlooking the Caribbean ocean and Mineral pool. The Martini Bar is open daily, except Tuesdays and Fridays from 5pm to 9pm.

]]>Couples Bloghttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/143-Couples-Sans-Souci-Martini-BarEscape the Cold Winter Months to Warm Jamaican Paradisehttp://couples.com/mb/entry.php/142-Escape-the-Cold-Winter-Months-to-Warm-Jamaican-Paradise
Thu, 13 Feb 2014 17:02:37 GMTSo we heard that the ground hog saw his shadow and that means six more weeks of below zero temperatures, shoveling snow, having to defrost your car...

So we heard that the ground hog saw his shadow and that means six more weeks of below zero temperatures, shoveling snow, having to defrost your car or worse stuck in traffic for ten hours to get home to family or friends. Need a break? Book a ticket, pack your bags and prepare to snuggle up next to your love on the best Caribbean vacation of a lifetime where warm weather, sunny skies and relaxing by a pristine beach is the norm.

Couples Resorts offers all inclusive vacations to Jamaica where relaxing on the beach sipping Pina Coladas or Red Stripe beer in a swimsuit are allowed 365 days of the year. With highs in the 80s and lows in the 70s, you’re sure to forget all about the cold back home and instead, sit back and relax with us. Did we mention the never-ending activities and excursions? Whether you prefer your sunshine from atop a Catamaran cruise or maybe from afloat a signature Couples mat, we have all the sunshine you need for the perfect winter getaway!